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Catastrophic Failure During Tianlong-3 Medium-Lift Orbital Launch Vehicle Test by China's Space Pioneer

Jun 30, 2024, 12:21 PM

A catastrophic failure occurred during a static fire test of the Tianlong-3 medium-lift orbital launch vehicle's first stage by China's Space Pioneer. The incident happened on June 30, 2024, in Gongyi, Henan Province. The rocket, developed by the private aerospace manufacturer Space Pioneer, emitted black smoke during its flight before crashing into a mountain and exploding. The test, initially intended to be static, resulted in an accidental launch due to structural failure. Videos captured by residents showed the rocket's descent and explosion. The city's emergency management bureau confirmed the incident. No casualties have been reported so far.